If you're an Apple user, you've probably noticed that macOS doesn't include a direct equivalent to the classic MS Paint for Windows, so if you're looking for something along those lines you'll have to look for alternatives to Paint for Mac. And while apps like Preview offer some basic editing tools, users often look for more functional and versatile options for simple design or retouching work.
Luckily for all of you, there are numerous alternatives that allow you to draw, edit images and make annotations intuitively, without the complexity of advanced programs like Photoshop, which we will see throughout this post.
Paintbrush: the one that most resembles them
One of the best known options is Paintbrush, a lightweight editor that replicates the Paint experience on Windows and ends up being basically the same thing.
This program stands out for its Simple and user-friendly interface, ideal for quick tasks such as drawing, adding text or making small adjustments, it is very easy to use and is designed for those who need a basic editing program that does not consume too many resources.
Although it doesn't offer advanced tools, it's a perfect solution for creating sketches, adding annotations to images, or making quick edits without complications, supporting common image formats like PNG and JPEG, and Its operation is fluid even on computers with modest specifications.
Preview: What macOS brings us by default
Another interesting tool is Preview, a native macOS app that many users overlook.
Although it is primarily designed as a file viewer, includes editing functions that can be useful in simple projects, letting you perform tasks like cropping images, adjusting colors, and adding text or drawings to your files.
Also allows you to annotate PDF documents, which makes it a multi-purpose tool for those looking for something more than just an image editor. Its strongest point, without a doubt, is its integration with the operating system, which makes it a very fast and efficient option, although it is limited compared to specialized applications.
Krita: an alternative for cartoonists
For those looking for something more complete, Chalk is an exceptional alternative. This open source program It is oriented towards digital design and illustration, offering advanced tools not usually found in free applications.
Krita includes a wide range of customizable brushes, support for layers, and advanced effects that allow you to create everything from simple drawings to complex works of art, and has an interface that is carefully designed to be intuitive, and although it does have a learning curve, is much more accessible than programs like Photoshop.
And the best thing about Krita, besides being ideal for digital artists and graphic designers, is that it gives us a lot of power and customization without having to spend money since it is free software and freeware.
Autodesk Sketchbook: For Professional Illustrators
On the other hand, sketch book It is a very popular alternative among illustrators and creatives, who It offers us a professional experience for those who need an advanced drawing environment. but easy to use.
Sketchbook includes a wide selection of customizable brushes, symmetry tools, and options to work in multiple layers, with an interface that's designed to take full advantage of your Mac's display, offering a clean, distraction-free workspace.
Although some of its advanced features require a subscription, Its free version is more than enough for most users. looking for a powerful tool for drawing and designing, and as an option, it stands out among the alternatives to Paint for Mac, being more than outstanding.
GIMP: the free “Photoshop”
Another of the outstanding alternatives to Paint for Mac is GIMP: the free “Photoshop”, an open source image editing program that We already spoke to you on another occasion, which offers a more advanced solution for those looking for something similar to Photoshop but at no cost.
GIMP allows you to perform photo retouching, work with layers, and apply advanced effects to your images, but there is a learning curve involved because it can be a bit overwhelming at first.
Although its interface may seem a bit complex at first, It is an extremely versatile and powerful tool and is aimed directly at users who need something more than a simple editor, being an excellent option that combines advanced features with total customization.
Tayasui Sketches: notes and brushes without any complications
If you prefer a solution more geared towards basic editing, Tayasui sketches It is a fantastic option for those who enjoy drawing or taking visual notes.
This program combines a minimalist interface with powerful tools, oroffering an experience that resembles drawing on paper, including brushes that mimic real textures like watercolors, pencils, and pens, making it an excellent choice for artists looking for an organic touch in their designs.
In addition, its focus on simplicity makes it perfect for users who want to start creating without dealing with complicated configurations.
Pixelmator: A great option, but you have to pay
As the last of the Paint alternatives for Mac that we present we have Pixelmator, a premium option that combines ease of use with advanced editing toolsDesigned exclusively for macOS, Pixelmator integrates seamlessly with OS features like gestures and Metal technology for optimal performance.
This program It is ideal for editing photos, designing graphics and creating complex compositions., but it comes at a cost, because it's not free. And even though it does have that cost, we've included it because we believe it offers a perfect balance between simplicity and power, making it a popular choice among photographers and designers working on a Mac.
Time to get wet: What is the best Paint alternative for Mac?
Although macOS does not include a direct equivalent to Paint, there are many alternatives that adapt to different needs and experience levels, but it is very difficult to be clear about which is the best of all.
Since we have basic options from Paintbrush and Preview, to more advanced tools like Krita, GIMP or Pixelmator, There is something for every type of userThe key is to choose the application that best fits your goals, whether making quick edits, drawing, or working on more ambitious projects.
But without a doubt, if what we are looking for is a “Here I catch you, here I kill you” without complications, Our winner is Paintbrush, because it gives us what we asked for: an alternative app that is 100% transferable to macOS and has no learning curve.